Before we completely move on to our next game, let's take a look at the job the defense did this past Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks. It quite possibly was the best game the defense has had in a long time, and while they've had their ups and downs, now's the time that we dish out the grade. Limiting Matt Hasselbeck throughout the game is a feat upon itself, but completely limiting the Seahawks as a whole deserves much more credit. The Cardinals held Hasselbeck to a 34% completion percentage and 32.5 QB rating. The Cardinals also didn't allow a third down conversion, which brought their season average to 3rd overall. Against the pass, they held top receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh to 4 catches for 34 yards. Finally, by holding the Seahawks to 14 rushing yards, they continued thier number one spot, allowing only 59.6 rushing yards per game. Key contributors after the jump...
|
|
First |
3rd |
Total |
Pass |
Rush |
Total |
Yards Per |
TO |
TOP |
|
Seahawks |
7 |
0-11 |
128 |
114 |
14 |
46 |
3.1 |
2 |
17:10 |
Key Contributors:
Calais Campbell - Campbell was already nominated for Cardinal of the week, and now makes the list for his impressive performance against the Seahawks. He took advantage of an injured line, and bullied his way into the back field to disrupt Hasselbeck. Campbell only had one sack, but should've received credit for the forced fumble as well. Campbell had a QB hit and had two tackles for a loss also. His only error was not blocking a field goal. ; )
Adrian Wilson - Wilson takes pride in his defense and was upset at their 32nd ranked pass defense heading into this game. He only had 4 tackles but it was enough to lead the team. Wilson also hit Hasselbeck twice and was in his face at other times. At one point, Wilson easily threw 2nd year tight end, John Carlson out of the way, to tackle the running back.
Clark Haggans - Through out the game Haggans was speaking his mind, letting fellow Cardinals know how pumped up he was. He brought down Hasselbeck once for a sack, and was also at the end of several tackles during the game. The linebackers also redeemed themselves by not giving up the short pass and allowing the Seahawks to get back into the game.
Cardinals Defensive Grade: A+
The Cardinals will need another performance like this on Sunday night, when they play a well-balanced New York Giants club. Pressure on Eli Manning and stopping the run will be key for the win. Why did you grade the Cardinals defense the way you did?